Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a sweet little treat that's soft, chewy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. These cookies are topped with a classic chocolate kiss right in the center,…
Tip: save now, cook later.Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a sweet little treat that’s soft, chewy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. These cookies are topped with a classic chocolate kiss right in the center, making each bite a perfect mix of fruity and chocolatey goodness. They’re colorful, simple, and just plain fun to eat.
I love making these cookies when I want something easy but impressive. The strawberry in the dough gives them a nice, light fruity twist that pairs wonderfully with the chocolate on top. Plus, the smell as they bake fills the whole kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that always makes me smile.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy Strawberry Kiss Cookies is with a glass of cold milk or a cup of tea. They’re perfect for sharing at a casual get-together or just as a little pick-me-up during the day. I also find that kids really enjoy helping to press the kisses into the warm cookies just as they come out of the oven—it’s a sweet little moment to share while baking together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberries or Preserves: Fresh strawberries add natural sweetness and texture, but strawberry preserves work well too for strong flavor. If you can’t find either, raspberry or cherry jam are tasty alternatives.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for control over saltiness. Softened butter creamed with sugar helps create that tender, crumbly cookie texture. You can try margarine, but it may affect flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives structure without heaviness. For a gluten-free option, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend, but be aware the texture may be softer.
Chocolate Kisses or Spread: Traditional chocolate kisses melt perfectly in the warm cookies. Nutella or any chocolate-hazelnut spread is a rich, smooth alternative that also tastes great.
How Do You Get the Perfect Soft but Cracked Cookie Texture?
Achieving the soft, cracked look comes down to dough moisture and baking time. Here’s how to get it right:
- Dough consistency: Make sure the dough isn’t too dry. Add milk little by little until it feels soft but not sticky.
- Don’t overmix: Mix the dry ingredients just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
- Bake time: Watch closely toward the end. As soon as the cookies start to crack and look set but still soft, take them out.
- Press chocolate while warm: Add the chocolate kiss or spread immediately after baking, so it melts slightly and sticks to the cookie.
With these tips, your cookies will be soft, light, and have that lovely, natural crackled appearance that makes them so inviting.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – a flat, sturdy surface for even baking and perfect cookie shape.
- Parchment paper – prevents sticking and makes cleanup super easy.
- Mixing bowls – one for dry ingredients and one for wet; keeps things organized.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk – makes creaming butter and sugar quick and smooth.
- Cookie scoop or spoon – helps you make evenly sized cookie dough balls for uniform baking.
- Cooling rack – lets cookies cool evenly without getting soggy underneath.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap strawberry preserves for raspberry or cherry jam for a different fruity twist.
- Add white chocolate chips into the dough for extra creamy sweetness.
- Mix in finely chopped freeze-dried strawberries to boost strawberry flavor and add crunch.
- Top with peanut butter cups instead of chocolate kisses for a rich, nutty finish.
Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for enhanced flavor)
- 1/3 cup strawberry preserves or finely chopped fresh strawberries
- 2 tablespoons milk (adjust as needed)
- Pink food coloring (optional, to enhance color)
Toppings:
- Chocolate kisses or chocolate spread
- Small strawberry-shaped or raspberry-shaped candy, or fresh strawberry pieces for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. Allow cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet, which may take an additional 15-20 minutes. Overall, plan for around 40-50 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for now.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar, Then Add Flavors:
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer or a sturdy spoon to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Next, beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if you’re using it.
3. Mix in Strawberry and Combine Dough:
Stir in the strawberry preserves or finely chopped fresh strawberries. For a brighter pink color, add a few drops of pink food coloring. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk as needed. Mix until you get a soft dough that’s easy to handle but not sticky.
4. Form and Bake Your Cookies:
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, shape the dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and have just started to crack on top.
5. Add Chocolate and Garnishes:
Right after you remove the cookies from the oven, press a chocolate kiss or a small dollop of chocolate spread into the center of each cookie. Then, top each chocolate center with a small strawberry-shaped candy, raspberry-shaped candy, or a fresh strawberry piece, as you like.
6. Cool and Enjoy:
Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet so the chocolate can set perfectly. Once cooled, your Strawberry Kiss Cookies are ready to eat and share!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well first to avoid extra moisture in the dough. Pat them dry with paper towels for best results.
Can I Substitute Chocolate Kisses With Something Else?
Definitely! Nutella, chocolate chips, or small pieces of milk or dark chocolate work great as alternatives. Just press them into the cookies while still warm so they melt slightly.
How Should I Store Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze well for up to 2 months—just thaw before serving.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes! Feel free to prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This can help enhance the flavors and make baking day easier.
